Modular Transmission Assembly for Easy Axle Ratio Changes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles typically have fixed axle ratios, and changing the axle ratio often requires replacing components of the vehicle's transmission, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A transmission assembly for a vehicle that includes an intermediate shaft assembly with a first and second gear module, allowing the axle ratio to be adjusted by removing and replacing the second gear module, and a bearing housing that can be mounted or removed to facilitate this process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the axle ratio is changed by replacing transmission components, then the axle ratio can be adjusted, but the complexity and cost of the replacement process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission assembly is divided into modular components, specifically the gear module that can be independently removed and replaced. The gear module includes the second intermediate shaft and associated gears, which can be separated from the rest of the transmission housing. This segmentation allows for easy replacement of only the necessary components to change axle ratio, rather than replacing entire transmission assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission system is designed with dynamic reconfigurability, allowing the gear module to be selectively engaged or disengaged from the first intermediate shaft. The second intermediate shaft can be positioned in an engaged condition with the first intermediate shaft or a disengaged condition, enabling flexible adjustment of the axle ratio based on operational requirements without permanent fixed configuration.
2Ease of operation
If the gear module is designed for easy removal and replacement, then the ease of operation improves, but the reliability of the connection may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The gear module is segmented into a removable second intermediate shaft assembly that can be separated from the first intermediate shaft. This segmentation enables easy removal and replacement operations while maintaining secure connections during operation through proper interface design with the first intermediate shaft and bearing housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing housing acts as an intermediary component that facilitates both the secure mounting and easy removal of the second intermediate shaft. The bearing housing provides a standardized interface with the transmission housing and gear module, enabling reliable operation when engaged while allowing straightforward removal when the housing is taken off for maintenance or ratio changes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables convenient and cost-effective adjustment of the axle ratio by allowing the second gear module to be easily removed and replaced, reducing the need for extensive transmission component replacement.
Implementation Method 1
The intermediate bearing plate houses a first bearing. The first intermediate shaft is supported by the first bearing
Implementation Method 2
The first intermediate shaft is supported by the first bearing and operably coupled with the rotor shaft via a gear interface
Implementation Method 3
The bearing housing is configured to be coupled to the transmission housing and has a second bearing housed therein that is configured to support and facilitate rotation of the second intermediate shaft
Implementation Method 4
The second bearing housed within the bearing housing is configured to support and facilitate rotation of the second intermediate shaft
Implementation Method 5
a third bearing housed within the bearing housing and configured to support and facilitate rotation of a portion of the differential in the mounted condition of the bearing housing
Implementation Method 6
The third bearing housed within the bearing housing is configured to support and facilitate rotation of a portion of the differential
Implementation Method 7
The first intermediate shaft is supported by the first bearing and operably coupled with the rotor shaft via a gear interface, such that rotation of the rotor shaft drives rotation of the first intermediate shaft
Implementation Method 8
The differential has a ring gear that interfaces with the second gear module in the engaged condition of the second gear module and the mounted condition of the bearing housing
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission assembly for a vehicle includes a transmission housing, an intermediate bearing plate, a flange, and an intermediate shaft assembly. The transmission housing defines an interior region and includes a housing cover operable between closed and open positions. The intermediate bearing plate extends into the interior region and houses a first bearing. The flange houses a second bearing and is operable between mounted and removed conditions. In the mounted condition, the flange is mounted to the housing cover. The intermediate shaft assembly includes a first intermediate shaft that rotates within the first bearing and a second intermediate shaft that rotates within the second bearing. The second intermediate shaft is operable between engaged and disengaged conditions. In the engaged condition, the second intermediate shaft is engaged with the first intermediate shaft such that the first and second intermediate shafts are coaxial and rotate at a common rate.